The Best Years For Peugeot 208 And Some To Avoid

The Peugeot 208, a stylish and practical supermini, has been a popular choice for drivers seeking a blend of economy, comfort, and French flair. However, like any car model, some years of the 208 have proven to be more reliable and desirable than others. This guide aims to provide you with the information needed to make an informed decision when buying a used or new Peugeot 208, highlighting the best years and potential pitfalls to avoid.

Peugeot 208: Model Years and Key Considerations

Detailed Explanations:

2012-2015 (First Generation): This generation marked a significant step forward for Peugeot in the supermini segment. The 208 offered a more engaging driving experience than its predecessor, the 207, with lighter weight and improved handling. The e-HDi diesel engines were particularly popular for their excellent fuel economy, making them ideal for high-mileage drivers. However, potential buyers should be aware of potential timing chain issues, especially on the 1.2 VTi petrol engine. It's also wise to thoroughly check the infotainment system for any glitches and inspect the clutch for smooth operation.

2015-2019 (First Generation Facelift): The facelifted first-generation 208 brought several improvements, including a refreshed exterior design, an updated infotainment system with enhanced connectivity, and improved interior materials. The introduction of the PureTech petrol engines was a significant highlight, offering a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency. However, the 1.2 PureTech engine has been known to suffer from excessive oil consumption in some cases, and there have been reports of turbocharger problems. Clutch judder can also be an issue, and it's advisable to check for any recurring electrical faults.

2019-Present (Second Generation): The second-generation 208 represents a radical departure from its predecessors, with a bold and modern design that sets it apart from its rivals. The Peugeot i-Cockpit, with its small steering wheel and high-mounted instrument cluster, provides a unique driving experience. The introduction of the all-electric e-208 variant is a significant step towards electrification. While this generation offers numerous improvements, potential buyers should be aware of some potential issues. Some owners have reported unreliability with the infotainment system, and the e-208's battery range may not always meet expectations. Build quality concerns have also been raised by some reviewers.

Key Areas to Inspect Before Buying a Used Peugeot 208:

• Engine (all generations): Listen for any unusual noises, check for oil leaks, and ensure the engine runs smoothly. Pay particular attention to potential timing chain issues on 1.2 VTi engines (2012-2015) and oil consumption on 1.2 PureTech engines (2015-present).
• Clutch: Test the clutch for smooth engagement and disengagement. Listen for any signs of judder or slipping.
• Gearbox: Check for smooth gear changes and listen for any unusual noises.
• Infotainment System: Ensure all features of the infotainment system are working correctly, including the touchscreen, navigation, and connectivity.
• Electrics: Check all electrical components, including lights, wipers, and windows, to ensure they are functioning properly.
• Bodywork: Inspect the bodywork for any signs of damage, rust, or poor repairs.
• Interior: Check the interior for signs of wear and tear, and ensure all features are working correctly.
• Service History: Review the service history to ensure the car has been properly maintained.

Engine Options and Their Reliability:

• 1.0 VTi: A small, naturally aspirated petrol engine. Generally reliable but can feel underpowered, especially when fully loaded.
• 1.2 VTi: Another naturally aspirated petrol engine. Prone to timing chain issues, especially in earlier models.
• 1.2 PureTech (68, 82, 110, 130 bhp): A turbocharged petrol engine. Offers a good balance of performance and fuel economy but has been known to suffer from oil consumption and turbocharger issues. The 130 bhp variant generally proves more reliable due to upgraded components.
• 1.4 HDi: A diesel engine known for its fuel efficiency. Generally reliable, but check for injector issues and diesel particulate filter (DPF) problems, especially if used primarily for short journeys.
• 1.6 HDi: A more powerful diesel engine. Similar reliability to the 1.4 HDi, but check for potential turbocharger issues.
• e-208 (Electric): The all-electric version. Check the battery health and range, and ensure the charging system is functioning correctly.

Trim Levels and Features:

Peugeot 208 trim levels vary depending on the year and market, but common trims include:

• Access/Active: Basic trim levels with essential features.
• Allure: Mid-range trim with more features, such as alloy wheels, automatic climate control, and a touchscreen infotainment system.
• GT Line/GT: Sportier trim levels with a more aggressive styling, sports seats, and upgraded suspension.
• e-208: The electric version, available in various trim levels.

Generally, higher trim levels offer a more desirable driving experience due to the added features and comfort.

Safety Features:

The Peugeot 208 has generally performed well in Euro NCAP crash tests. Standard safety features typically include:

• Anti-lock brakes (ABS)
• Electronic stability control (ESC)
• Multiple airbags
• Hill start assist
• Automatic emergency braking (AEB) (on newer models)
• Lane departure warning (on newer models)

Cost of Ownership:

The cost of owning a Peugeot 208 can vary depending on the engine, trim level, and maintenance schedule. Generally, the 208 is relatively affordable to run, with good fuel economy and reasonable servicing costs. However, potential buyers should factor in the cost of potential repairs, especially for engines known to have specific issues. The e-208 offers lower running costs due to cheaper electricity compared to petrol or diesel.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• Which Peugeot 208 year is the most reliable? The facelifted first-generation models (2015-2019) with the later versions of the PureTech engine (especially the 130bhp) are generally considered more reliable than earlier models.
• Are Peugeot 208s expensive to repair? Generally, Peugeot 208s are not overly expensive to repair, but some specific engine issues (like timing chain or turbocharger problems) can lead to higher repair bills.
• What are the common problems with the Peugeot 208? Common problems include timing chain issues (1.2 VTi), oil consumption (1.2 PureTech), infotainment system glitches, and clutch problems.
• Is the Peugeot e-208 a good electric car? The e-208 is a stylish and practical electric car, but potential buyers should be aware of its range limitations and potential infotainment system issues.
• What is the real-world range of the Peugeot e-208? The real-world range of the Peugeot e-208 is typically between 150 and 200 miles, depending on driving conditions and battery health.
• Is the Peugeot 208 a good first car? Yes, the Peugeot 208 is a good first car due to its small size, easy handling, fuel efficiency, and relatively affordable price.
• What should I look for when buying a used Peugeot 208? Look for a well-maintained car with a full service history, and pay close attention to potential engine and clutch issues.

Conclusion:

Choosing the right year of Peugeot 208 can significantly impact your ownership experience. While the second-generation models offer the most modern features and styling, the facelifted first-generation models (2015-2019) provide a good balance of reliability and value for money, provided you thoroughly inspect them for potential issues. Always prioritize a comprehensive inspection and service history to ensure you are making a sound investment.